Why We Build

Featured: Chen Phon’s story

Drawing hope from a community well

Habitat for Humanity builds more than homes. In the Cambodian village of Kor Tro Keat, a simple Habitat water project has changed the lives of the entire community.

Chen Phon, 47, lost his right leg decades ago in a landmine blast that also claimed much of his vision. For years, he had to walk great distances to get water to sustain his wife and child and their meager vegetable garden. In 2007, Habitat for Humanity Cambodia stepped in and provided cement, construction materials and building instructions for a well to serve Phon and all his neighbors.

Now, Phon’s garden provides plenty of food for his family, with enough left over to sell in the village market. The Phons also raise animals and chickens, allowing them to build a more secure future. Meanwhile, the health of the entire family has improved.

“The life of my family has changed so much,” Phon says. The well “has given me hope from my hopelessness.”

One small investment in a community pays off in healthier, happier families who can improve their livelihood options and provide a better future for their children. See how, in this final installment of Why We Build.

Watch a video about Chen

About this series

For Habitat, “why” isn’t a question. It’s the answer.

It’s why we build.

More than 1 million people each year lend their hands and hearts, so that Habitat’s “hand-up” approach can be realized. Many give days, months and even lifetimes to our cause, but too few have the chance to see their investment pay dividends in the lives of our partner families.

We hope you will join us as we present 52 stories, a new one each week, to learn more about the houses you help us build and bless — and to learn more about the families who have made them their homes.

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